The Spirit of Yawa'
Guided by the Spirit of Yawa’—to act on one’s beliefs—we give back to the communities we call home by supporting organizations that share our vision for a stronger, more compassionate future. Our commitment to giving extends year-round, as we continue to build partnerships that create lasting impact.
A Legacy of Giving
Rooted in the Spirit of Yawa’—to act on one’s beliefs—our legacy of giving is built on compassion, reciprocity, and community. While Yawa’ is now recognized through our philanthropic efforts, it has long been a lived experience within our own history.
In the early 20th century, Dr. Lyra George of Loma Linda Health rode by horseback to the Reservation to deliver babies. In the 1960s, San Bernardino Mayor Al C. Ballard worked with our elders to repair the pump that supplied our only source of drinking water. These acts of kindness showed us how Yawa’ heals, unites, and strengthens community.
Inspired by those who once extended a hand to us—and grounded in our sacred values—we continue that cycle of cooperation today. Since 2003, San Manuel has awarded more than $450 million in philanthropic support, helping to build a stronger, more vibrant future for all.
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Inspiring Our Future Through Education
We support programs that create pathways to a better future through education.
We fund:
- S.T.E.A.M. programs
- After-school programs
- Scholarship programs
- College access programs
- Career readiness programs
- Community-based arts and music programs
Empowering Lives
We stand up for those who need basic services, including food and shelter. And we stand with veterans as well as those currently serving our country.
We fund:
- Direct services to prevent and address homelessness through case management services and housing programs
- Programs directed to supporting economic mobility for veterans and military families
- Community initiatives and programming efforts that increase the health, dignity and quality of life for senior citizens
- Comprehensive support services and safe spaces for survivors and victims of domestic violence
- Projects that create the development, preservation, or rehabilitation of accessible transitional housing
- Non-profit organizations providing accessible civil legal aid and advocacy to protect the rights of underserved individuals and families
Reinforcing Healthy and Resilient Communities
We partner with community-based groups, native-led organizations, and local agencies that uplift and support our communities.
We fund:
- Direct healthcare services including education, disease prevention and management
- Programs that provide career pathway programs through workforce development and training opportunities
- Disaster response and mitigation efforts that support and protect our communities
- Programs that provide direct services for missing and murdered indigenous women and girls
Preserving Cultural Traditions and Empowering Indian Country
Yuhaaviatam culture and history—rooted in the teachings and sacrifices of our ancestors—continue to define and sustain us today. Across Indian Country, our shared heritage, values, and resilience create unbreakable bonds. Together, we work to ensure a strong and prosperous future for all Indigenous peoples.
We fund:
- Cultural education and stewardship of Indigenous heritage
- Revitalization of traditional lifeways, oral histories, and language preservation
- Cultural gatherings, heritage celebrations, and community cultural centers
- Environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability of wildlife, plant life, and water resources
